Crown-wearing Ibadan Obas get staff, instrument of office
Oyo State Government will today present beaded-crown, staff and instrument of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland. The government yesterday formally announced the event amid speculations of power
- From Yinka Adeniran and Segun Showunmi, Ibadan
Oyo State Government will today present beaded-crown, staff and instrument of office to three newly elevated Obas in Ibadanland.
The government yesterday formally announced the event amid speculations of power play and interface between power, politics and tradition.
There are insinuations surrounding the event, which the government says underscores its commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and preserving cultural heritage.
The event is scheduled to hold at Mapo Hall ground, Ibadan.
The ceremony will witness official coronation of three traditional rulers, namely Oba Akeem Adewoyin (Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland), Oba Oyekola Babalola, SAN, (Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadanland) and Oba Sarafadeen Alli (Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland).
The presentation of the staff of office by Governor Seyi Makinde signifies the formal endorsement of their elevated status as beaded crown-wearing Obas within the Ibadan traditional hierarchy.
At press time, it remained unclear if the governor would be present at the event.
A source indicated that the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, might not be at the event, as he was said to have travelled out of the state. The information could not be confirmed from any source close to the palace at press time.
The Nation reports that Governor Makinde has installed 12 kings and over 40 Baale since 2019, a feat unequalled in the history of chieftaincy installation in the state.
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Dignitaries from across the country, including traditional rulers, government officials and the public are expected to attend the event.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Demola Ojo, said the state government reaffirmed its dedication to promoting unity, cultural pride and inclusive development through sustained collaboration with traditional authorities.
When The Nation visited the Mapo Hall venue, it was observed that the event is billed to hold outside the hall, as canopies are already mounted around the premises of the hall with chairs.
Chairs and tables were also seen dedicated for dignitaries expected at the event.
Roads leading to the hall were not blocked and businesses around the area were going on as usual.
The Nation also observed increased security patrol around the axis.
